The Big Trail concept came out of a conversation between a handful of UK dealers and Merida's R&D chief about what a British trail hardtail actually needs: a 140mm air fork, 29in wheels, a 1x drivetrain and a dropper post. The 300 is the most affordable way into that recipe, and it gives up none of the geometry that makes the platform work.

The TFS 6061 double-butted technoformed aluminium frame runs a 64.0° head angle with a 76.5° seat angle, so it climbs without you sliding off the back and stays calm when things get steep. An SR Suntour XCR34 2CR air fork handles the front with 140mm of travel and a lockout, a 1x9 Shimano CUES U4000 drivetrain is matched to an 11-46 SunRace cassette for a usable spread of gears, and Shimano MT200 hydraulic discs do the stopping. The dropper post fitted as standard is the detail that turns a budget hardtail into something you can push.

Features

• TFS 6061 double-butted technoformed aluminium frame with Boost axles, tapered head tube and internal cable routing
• Progressive trail geometry: 64.0° head angle, 76.5° seat angle
• SR Suntour XCR34 2CR air fork, 140mm travel, lockout and 44mm offset
• 1x9 Shimano CUES U4000 drivetrain with SunRace 11-46 cassette
• Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes
• Tubeless-ready Comp CC II rims, 25mm internal width, on Shimano Centerlock hubs
• Kenda Regolith 29x2.4 tyres, clearance for up to 29x2.5
• Dropper post fitted as standard, 150mm or 170mm travel depending on frame size
• Agilometer sizing, so you can pick reach to suit your riding style rather than just your height